Andorra is normally thought of as a winter destination due to its famous ski resorts, however, a summer in Andorra is also incredible. Some of the best things to do in Andorra in summer include incredible walks, cycling, adventure parks, shopping or relaxing in one of its spas.
Its location, landlocked between Spain and France, in the Pyrenees mountain range, offers incredible panoramic views everywhere you look. It’s a great day trip from Barcelona, Spain and absolutely worth visiting on your European trip!
Whether you’re looking for adventure, are a shopaholic or looking to rejuvenate in a relaxing spa after all your travels, a trip to Andorra in the summer is perfect for you!
How to get to Andorra
Mainly due to its mountainous location, the best way to get to Andorra is by car. Andorra does not have its own airport, so you will need to fly into one of the nearby airports in Spain or France, Toulouse and Carcassonne in the south of France, and Barcelona, Spain being the closest.
Andorra also does not have any trains entering the country. There are buses you can take in Andorra, however that will add hours to your travel time to get there.
The easiest, fastest and most comfortable way to get to Andorra is, without a doubt, by car. Once you get there, here are the best things to do in Andorra in summer.
Andorra Summer – What to do
Hiking
Andorra is a fabulous place for hikers as it offers more than 60 trails to enjoy. With different levels of difficulty, there is a hike for everyone to experience. Hiking will give you the opportunity to soak up and admire the beautiful natural landscapes that Andorra has to offer and discover incredible places that often go unnoticed.
Andorra is home to three natural parks including the Coma Pedrosa Valley, the Sorteny Valley and the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Andorra Valley, classified by UNESCO. Considering how small a country it is, having three natural parks is extremely impressive!
The opportunity to explore the magnificent nature of the Pyrenees Mountains is definitely not to be missed during the summer in Andorra. Put it on your list of things to do in Andorra in summer
Mountain Biking or Cycling
If hiking on wheels is your thing, then Andorra is the perfect destination for you. Andorra is one of the best mountain biking and cycling destinations in Europe and is the perfect summer activity in Andorra. There are more than 200 km of marked routes through its beautiful landscapes and settings for mountain bikers and also many prestigious paths for cycling.
During your visit to Andorra, the cyclist can take advantage of the many rental shops, so it is not necessary to transport your own equipment.
Furthermore, cyclists can use the many lifts to access more than 40 km of trails for cyclists of all levels.
Andorra is a regular location for the Tour de France, which of course is a must if your trip aligns with the tour. If not, however, it is a clear testament to the amazing biking and cycling that Andorra has to offer.
relax in a spa
After enjoying all the exciting summer activities in Andorra, or perhaps instead of them, Andorra is also the perfect destination to relax and pamper yourself. The charming city of Andorra de Vella has many spas to choose from and you should visit at least one while you are here.
Probably the best known is the Caldea spa, which is also the largest inland spa in southern Europe. You can’t miss it while walking around the city, since its architecture is super unique. The glass building rises to a tall, sharp point at the top and can be seen from anywhere in the city.
Drop by at night and watch the stars appear through the glass ceiling, or spend all day soaking in the warm water. Maybe you’ll even enjoy a massage offered by one of their talented masseurs. Chances are you never want to leave.
Shopping
Andorra is a duty-free country, making it the perfect place for retail therapy. There are also plenty of options for shopping in this small country, so you won’t have to venture far to find a few stores to visit. Shopping is a lot of fun in Andorra in summer.
Most of the shops are open late and are only closed a few days a year. Combine that with low prices and Andorra is a shopper’s paradise and a great place to update your wardrobe.
The largest shopping center is The Shopping Mile, which is located right in the center of Andorra la Vella, the capital of Andorra. In The Shopping Mile you can find fashion and accessories, perfumery, electronics and gadgets, and sports equipment and clothing.
adventure park
While you are in Andorra, visit Naturland for a fun and exciting day! Some of its main attractions include zip lining, buggy circuit, archery and an extreme jump on a giant inflatable platform.
But, the best attraction in my opinion is the tobotronc, the longest alpine roller coaster in the world! Don’t miss the unique opportunity to fly through the Pyrenees mountains, enjoying the beautiful views while you scream at every corner. It really is an exciting experience!
Naturland also has a restaurant on site and a separate area for children to play, so you can easily spend the whole day there. Do not miss it on your itinerary through Andorra. It is one of the best things to do in Andorra in summer.
Try the local food
As you stroll through the charming town of Andorra de Vella, stop at a small restaurant and enjoy traditional Andorran food. Traditional Andorran food is mainly Catalan, with some influences from French and Spanish cuisine, and is a must-try while exploring Andorra.
Here are some traditional local dishes to keep in mind while experiencing a summer in Andorra:
Escudella – national dish of Andorra. It is a typical winter dish, as it is served as a hot stew with pasta, vegetables and different types of meat. You’ll find it on almost every restaurant menu. Even if you’re only there in the summer, I recommend trying it while you can!
Cargols – snails! and oh so delicious
Andorran style trout – Grilled freshwater fish wrapped in ham. Usually trout or salmon.
Embotits: a delicious homemade sausage that you must try. Usually made from pork and a variety of spices.
And for dessert, Creme Andorrana, similar to creme brûlée but instead of burnt sugar on top, they top it with freshly whipped cream.
Do not wait for winter to arrive to visit us. There are so many fun and exciting things to do in Andorra in summer! Whether you are an adventure seeker or looking for a relaxed trip, there is something for you to do. Enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding Pyrenees mountains and have a fabulous time in Andorra.
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